Traffic accidents are the most frequent cause of fatal injuries among travelers. Accidents occur 20 times more often in developing countries. Causes:
1. Environment: Poor driving habits, inadequately enforced traffic laws, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, poorly constructed and maintained roads, inadequate lighting.
2. Equipment (rental vehicles): Tires and brakes worn out, poor condition of vehicle in general, no seatbelts, riding without helmet, etc.
3. Quality of ambulance and medical facilities: Delays in providing treatment can lead to higher mortality rates.
Prevention
All motor vehicles and bicycles: Check the tires and brakes. In your home country, find out what your insurance policy covers and take out additional coverage if necessary. Drive safely; do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs; do not drive at night; only drive when you are fully rested. Car: Fasten seatbelts.
Motorcycle: always Wear a helmet.
Swimming accidents
Swimming and bathing: Tides can generate strong currents. For this reason, it is imperative that you not enter the water until after you have obtained information about the currents and other risks (e.g. jellyfish in Australia or other venomous marine animals). Alcohol and drugs are frequent causes of fatal accidents. Surfers often sustain injuries that prevent them from reaching the shore. As with scuba diving, you should never swim alone. Remember to tell someone when you will be back and always return when you say you will.
Hiking and mountain bike accidents
It is often impossible for hikers and bikers to rely on maps. You should therefore hire a knowledgeable guide to take you hiking or mountain biking in unknown territory or over long distances. If you intend to hitchhike or camp in regions where there are large carnivores, you should keep all food away from areas where you sleep. Animals must not be approached nor fed under any circumstances. Consider, especially for hiking or biking in remote regions, obtaining rabies pre-exposure immunizations. Moreover, apply the same precautions here as the ones indicated for avoiding traffic accidents.
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